Speak Up Policy

Speak Up Policy Proposal
Executive summary of proposed changes:
Speak Up Policy – Executive Summary
Introducing a standalone Speak Up Policy reinforces Davenham Players’ commitment to psychological safety, respectful challenge, and transparent governance. While informal feedback has always been welcomed, this policy provides a clear, confidential route for raising concerns—whether about safety, behaviour, or organisational decisions.
It protects volunteers, strengthens committee accountability, and ensures issues are addressed early and fairly. By embedding regular reminders and clear reporting options, we foster a culture where speaking up is not just allowed—it’s actively encouraged.
Proposed Policy
Speak Up Policy
Creating space for honesty, safety, and respectful challenge
At Davenham Players, we believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and heard. Whether you’re a volunteer, performer, committee member, or guest, your voice matters—and raising concerns should never feel risky or unwelcome.
This policy sets out how we encourage open communication, protect those who speak up, and respond to concerns with care and integrity.
Why Speaking Up Matters
Speaking up helps us:
•
Spot problems early and prevent harm
•
Improve our policies, culture, and decision-making
•
Protect our reputation and charitable status
•
Build trust and psychological safety across the group
We welcome feedback, challenge, and concerns—even when they’re difficult. Respectful honesty is part of how we grow.
What You Can Speak Up About
You can raise concerns about:
•
Unsafe practices or breaches of health and safety
•
Bullying, harassment, or discrimination
•
Safeguarding risks or inappropriate behaviour
•
Financial misconduct or conflicts of interest
•
Breaches of our policies or Code of Conduct
•
Anything that makes you feel unsafe, excluded, or uncomfortable
How to Speak Up
You can speak up:
•
Directly to a Committee Member or Event Manager
•
Via email to the Chair or Governance Lead
•
Anonymously via a feedback form or survey (if available)
•
In writing, using a Speak Up Form (available backstage or online)
We encourage you to be honest and specific—but you don’t need to have proof. If you’re unsure whether something “counts,” speak up anyway.
What Happens Next
When you raise a concern:
•
It will be taken seriously and handled confidentially
•
You will not be penalised or excluded for speaking up
•
The Committee will assess the concern and decide next steps
•
You may be asked for more information, but you’re not required to participate further
•
If the issue involves serious risk or misconduct, external advice may be sought
Ongoing Culture of Safety
To keep this policy alive:
•
Speak Up will be included in volunteer induction and committee onboarding
•
A reminder will be issued quarterly via email or briefing
•
The Committee will review Speak Up logs annually and update procedures as needed
•
Any patterns or repeated concerns will be addressed proactively
Legal Framework
This policy aligns with:
•
Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 (UK whistleblowing law)
•
Charity Commission guidance on safeguarding and governance
•
Our own Code of Conduct, Safeguarding, and Equality policies
Final Word
We don’t expect perfection—but we do expect care, courage, and kindness. If something feels wrong, speak up. If someone speaks up to you, listen. Together, we make Davenham Players a place where everyone belongs—and where safety is never off-script.
This policy was agreed at the committee meeting on the DD.MM.YYYY. It is to be reviewed annually to ensure that it is fit for purpose and current at the first Committee meeting following each Annual General Meeting of the club.
Signed Chairman … (DIGITAL SIGNATURE). Secretary (DIGITAL SIGNATURE). Name of chair Name of Secretary
Date … DD.MM.YYYY …………………. Date … DD.MM.YYYY …………………..